Bluffs & Bayous April 2019

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APRIL 2019

F E AT U R E S The General Store . . . A Piece of the Past ........................................... 24-28 Gay Austin, Incoming President of National Garden Clubs, Inc. .......... 32-37 THE STYLE GUIDE — SPRING 2019 ................................................ 38-47

F AV O R I T E S G’s Fare Serve a Perfect Easter Brunch! ....................................................................... 10-15

Legal Notes “What God Hath Joined Together Let No Man . . .” ............................................18

Southern Sampler Mowing and Awaiting Good Gardening Weather ..................................................58

The General Store . . . A Piece of the Past pages 24 - 28

The Social Scene McComb Garden Club’s Annual Flower Show ........................................................8 Lincoln County Republican Women’s Membership Drive .......................................9 Haven Hall Open House ......................................................................................20 Celebration for Annette Dunaway .......................................................................22

The Wedding Scene Engagement Party for Ali Tirrell and Justin Hobbs........................................ 16-17

Up & Coming Louisiana Up & Coming ................................................................................. 48-50 Mississippi Up & Coming ................................................................................ 51-57

ON THE COVER Pictured on the cover for our Spring Fashion Focus is Caroline Rymer, model for RRUS & Company located in Vidalia, Louisiana. See story on pages 38-47. Cover photography by T. G. McCary

Gay Austin, Incoming President of National Garden Clubs, Inc. pages 32-37 Bluffs & Bayous { April 2019 { Page 5

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PUBLISHER Cheryl Foggo Rinehart COPY EDITOR Jean Nosser Biglane GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Jan Ratcliff

Anita Schilling

S TA F F P H O T O G R A P H E R S Tim McCary

Bill Perkins

Cheryl Rinehart

Lisa Adams Whittington

SALES STAFF Cheryl Rinehart

Donna Sessions

CONTRIBUTORS Lucien C. “Sam� Gwin III

Becky Junkin

Jennifer J. Whittier

Alma Womack

Cheryl Rinehart

Jean Biglane

Donna Sessions

Jan Ratcliff

Anita Schilling

Tim McCary

Lucien C. “Sam� Gwin III

Becky Junkin

Jennifer J. Whittier

Bill Perkins

Lisa Adams Whittington

Alma Womack

Bluffs & Bayous is published monthly to promote the greater Southern area of Louisiana and Mississippi in an informative and positive manner. We welcome contributions of articles and photos; however, they will be subject to editing and availability of space and subject matter. Photographs, comments, questions, subscription requests and ad placement inquiries are invited! Return envelopes and postage must accompany all materials submitted if a return is requested. No portion of this publication may be reproduced without written permission of the publisher. The opinions expressed in Bluffs & Bayous are those of the authors or columnists and do QRW QHFHVVDULO\ UHà HFW WKH YLHZV RI WKH SXEOLVKHU QRU GR WKH\ FRQVWLWXWH DQ HQGRUVHPHQW RI SURGXFWV RU VHUYLFHV KHUHLQ :H UHVHUYH WKH ULJKW WR UHIXVH DQ\ DGYHUWLVHment. Bluffs & Bayous strives to insure the accuracy of our magazine’s contents. However, should inaccuracies or omissions occur, we do not assume responsibility.

OFFICE 225 John R. Junkin Drive | Natchez, MS 39120 | 601-442-6847 bluffsmag@gmail.com | bbupandcoming@gmail.com www.bluffsbayous.com

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THE social SCENE MCCOMB, MISSISSIPPI

Visit www.bluffsbayous.com for all social scenes.

McComb Garden Club’s Annual Flower Show

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he McComb Garden Club held its annual flower show on February 4, 2019, in downtown McComb, Mississippi, at the Railroad Museum. This year was a National Garden Club Design Specialty Flower Show with the theme “Meet Me in Mississippi.”

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Blaize Holmes and Brooklyn Pigott Meredith Talbot and Hillary Freeman Deranne Boothe and Sherry Price Nikki Belote, Karinlee Brister, and Melissa Stringer Flower show guest with Brierley Acker from Bay Waveland Lance, Meyers, Mallory, and Emerson Newlon Sherrie Wall and Hazel Baker Ashlyn and Jeri Welch Youth award winners: Claire Gholson, Leighton Welch, and Eleanor Talbot

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10 9 10 Award winners: Kayla O’Hern (Garden Spirit Award), Sandy Summers (Tricolor Award), Carolyn Boone (Award of Design Excellence and Designers’ Choice Award), Courtney Griffin (Dottie Diamond Novice Award), Melissa Stringer (Designers’ Choice Award), Amanda Pigott (Delores Feldman Award), and Marla Hinckley (Educational Top Exhibitor Award) 11 Angelia Wade, Mary Johnston, Ruby Whitehead, Bonnie George, Betty Newman, Marie Jackson, Sissie Haynie, and Martha Fincher

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THE social SCENE BROOKHAVEN, MISSISSIPPI

Visit www.bluffsbayous.com for all social scenes.

Lincoln County Republican Women’s Membership Drive

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he Lincoln County Republican Women’s chapter recently hosted a Membership Drive and Meet & Greet event in Brookhaven, Mississippi, to promote education regarding 2019 candidate platforms and to likewise promote the importance of Get Out The Vote efforts.

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4 1 Senator Michael Watson and Lincoln County Sheriff Steve Rushing 2 Wendy Mullen-Smith and Representative Mark Baker 3 Michelle Mangold and Representative Vince Mangold 4 Carol Burgess, Hannah Mason, Cindy Moore, and Stephanie Bullock 5 Virgil Stewart and Tanza Brown 6 June Holland, Donna Foster, and Carol Burgess

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G’S FARE

BY

Becky Junkin and Jordan Falls PHOTOGRAPHY BY Jordan

Falls

Serve a Perfect Easter Brunch! H

appy Easter! I love to decorate for Easter and have everyone home; but as my children get older, having all of them and their families home doesn’t always happen; so instead, we sometimes celebrate with friends and extended family. This month’s recipes will help you prepare that perfect Easter-time brunch whether it is for family or for your close friends. I have to give full credit to my daughter Jordan on this month’s photos, recipes, related commentary, and cooking. She works full time and has two small children, kindergarten and under, but is still able to produce meals like this on a regular basis for her family. She has seasonal china that she uses throughout the year and decorates her house from top to bottom for each holiday. Page 10 { April 2019 { Bluffs & Bayous

As a former teacher, Jordan is the mother that a current teacher would want for a room mother. One teacher called Jordan at 4:30 p.m., while she was still at work, to say the class was in desperate need of someone to bring favors for a party the next day. I would have made a quick trip to the store to buy packages of pre-made favors to put on the tables—not Jordan. 6KH FUHDWHG EDJV Ă€OOHG ZLWK EURZQ VXJDU DGGHG D ´VDQGÂľ shovel and homemade sea cookies, and then tied the bag together with ribbon. Then, for each child, she added a cute card that, of course, she made. If you ever want ideas for a party, decorating, recipes, etc., she’s your girl. She whipped up all of these recipes one morning for breakfast and served it up to friends. So don’t be intimidated by the recipes!

I have made this recipe a few different ways but Mads’ (Jordan’s daughter, Madeline) favorite is this: just scramble 6 eggs and take off heat; then add in bacon, cheddar cheese, and salt (no pepper for her ever!). I then just follow the dashofsanity.com recipe below on assembling and baking. This recipe is good, but bacon really is better than ham. The 6 eggs are for making only one strudel using 1 puff pastry. Pictured is the plain strudel as Mads likes it.

DENVER OMELET BREAKFAST STRUDEL This is an easy, yet elegant, breakfast with ham, green peppers, shallots, eggs, and cheese, all wrapped up in buttery pastry. Prep Time: 12 minutes / Cook Time: 18 minutes Total Time: 30 minutes / Yield: 2 strudels Serves 8-10 12 eggs, whisked 1 teaspoon olive oil 1 green bell pepper, diced 2 shallots, thinly sliced 1 ham steak, cubed (or 3-4 pieces cooked bacon, crumbled) 1½-2 cups Monterrey Jack cheese, shredded W\Ɉ WHZ[Y` ZOLL[Z I use Pepperidge Farms.) Salt and pepper to taste 1 egg, whisked for topping Pre-heat oven to 400 degrees. Prepare 2 baking sheets by spraying with cooking oil, and set aside. .L[ V\[ [OL W\Ɉ WHZ[Y` HUK MVSSV^ [OL KPYLJ[PVUZ [V [OH^ 6UJL [OH^LK WSHJL W\Ɉ WHZ[Y` VU IHRPUN sheet. Roll lightly with a rolling pin. Do this for both pastries on separate pans. Heat a medium skillet. Add 1 teaspoon of olive oil. Once heated, add diced green pepper; and sautĂŠ for a minute just to soften slightly. Remove from heat, place in a bowl, and set aside. Add shallots to hot pan, and sautĂŠ for a minute to lessen the potency. Remove from heat, place in a bowl, and set aside. Add the ham cubes and cook for 2-3 minutes until warm. Remove from heat, place in a bowl, and set aside. (If using bacon instead of ham, ignore 2 previous sentences.) Add 12 whisked eggs. Scramble and cook until the eggs no longer look wet. Once done, remove from heat and set in a large mixing bowl. Add in peppers, shallots, ham (or bacon), and salt and pepper to taste. Mix together; then add cheese and slightly toss. Add ½ of the egg mixture to one pastry sheet. Have it directly in the center, in a row. Then make diagonal cuts down the sides of your sheet of pastry, and crissJYVZZ [OLT V]LY [OL LNN Ă„SSPUN 9LWLH[ ^P[O SLM[V]LY LNN HUK W\Ɉ WHZ[Y` ZOLL[ <ZPUN [OL ^OPZRLK LNN and a basting brush, brush the egg mixture on top of both of the strudels. Place in the oven, one pastry at a time; and bake for 16-18 minutes until crust is a golden brown. Serve immediately.

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In my book, you can’t have a party without champagne; and this is a wonderful, easy recipe that is very light for a brunch.

LEMONADE MIMOSAS Delish.com 2 teaspoons lemon zest 1/2 cup sugar 1 lemon, thinly sliced, plus a wedge for rimming 1 bottle champagne 2 cups lemonade or pink lemonade In a shallow dish, mix lemon zest and Z\NHY 9PT JOHTWHNUL Å\[LZ ^P[O H SLTVU ^LKNL HUK KPW YPT VM LHJO Å\[L PU Z\NHY mixture. Place one slice of lemon inside LHJO JOHTWHNUL Å\[L ILUKPUN PM ULLKLK -PSS Å\[L OHSM^H` ^P[O JOHTWHNUL HUK [VW with lemonade. Serve.

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These would be cute for children, perfect for a school party, graduation party, or just for fun with the kids. Adults will love them as well.

MINI LEMON FLOWER TARTS Kidandkinblog.com Supplies: Flower cookie cutter Mini-cupcake pan

1 box Ready-to-Bake roll-out pie crusts (Jordan makes hers—recipe on next page.) 1 can lemon crème (Duncan Hines lemon crème can be found in the baking section, or you can use store-bought lemo curd or homemade—recipe below.) Powdered sugar, optional

If using Ready-to-Bake pie crust, set it out to reach room temperature. Preheat your V]LU [V KLNYLLZ 6UJL `V\Y KV\NO PZ YVVT [LTWLYH[\YL YVSS P[ V\[ HUK J\[ ÅV^LY ZOHWLZ V\[ VM P[ ^P[O H ÅV^LY JVVRPL J\[[LY WPL JY\Z[ THRLZ HIV\[ ÅV^LYZ ZV WSHU HJcordingly. ;\JR LHJO WPL KV\NO ÅV^LY KV^U PU[V H TPUP J\WJHRL OVSKLY ILPUN Z\YL [V WYLZZ [OL dough down into the bottom well; then gently fold the petals back around the top of the J\WJHRL WHU .P]L [OL IV[[VT HUK ZPKLZ H ML^ WVRLZ ^P[O H MVYR 9LWLH[ MVY LHJO ÅV^LY Bake for 5-6 minutes. .LU[S` YLTV]L [OL ÅV^LYZ HUK SL[ JVVS MVY H ML^ TPU\[LZ VU H ^PYL YHJR :WVVU [OL SLTVU JYuTL VY SLTVU J\YK PU[V H WSHZ[PJ IHNNPL ZLHSLK HPY[PNO[ HUK J\[ [OL [PW VɈ 7PWL [OL SLTVU JYuTL VY J\YK PU[V [OL JLU[LYZ VM [OL TPUP ÅV^LYZ 9LMYPNLYH[L MVY H ML^ OV\YZ VY until ready to serve. Sprinkle with powdered sugar if desired before serving. (0 [PS[ T` ÅV^LYZ ZV [OH[ [OL WV^KLYLK Z\NHY NL[Z VU [OL WL[HSZ HUK UV[ VU [OL WYL[[` `LSSV^ ÄSSPUN )

THE BEST LEMON CURD thefoodcharlatan.com Makes about 2¼ cups 1+ tablespoons lemon zest, optional* ¾ cup fresh lemon juice (3-4 large lemons) ¾ cup sugar

¼ teaspoon salt 3 large eggs + 4 large egg yolks 4 tablespoons butter, chopped**

In a small saucepan, stir together lemon zest, lemon juice, sugar, and salt. Set over medium heat and cook about 5 minutes or until the sugar and salt have dissolved. Meanwhile, in a medium bowl, beat together 3 eggs and 4 egg yolks. Whisk very well. When the liquid on the stove is ready, slowly pour some of it into the bowl with the eggs, whisking constantly to avoid curdling the eggs. I usually pour in about half, but you can do more or less. This is called tempering the eggs. Return the pot to the stove, and add the rest of the eggs while whisking constantly over medium heat for about 5 minutes or until the mixture has thickened. When you drag your whisk over the top of the mixture, it should leave marks. Pour the curd through a mesh Z[YHPULY PU[V H UL^ IV^S VY [OL ZHTL VUL ^HZOLK <USLZZ `V\ HYL HU L_WLY[ J\YK THRLY you will probably have a few small solid egg pieces in there, which is totally okay! Just strain them out. Stir the chopped butter into the lemon curd until it’s completely melted. Press a square of plastic wrap directly on top of the lemon curd. If you just cover the bowl, you will get a ÄST VU `V\Y J\YK 9LMYPNLYH[L \U[PS JVSK HIV\[ OV\YZ 0[ ^PSS [OPJRLU \W ZVTL HZ P[ JVVSZ Transfer to a Tupperware container. This curd keeps 1-2 weeks. Recipe Notes: ;OL SLTVU aLZ[ HKKZ NYLH[ ÅH]VY HUK THRLZ [OL J\YK [HUNPLY 0M [L_[\YL PZ TVYL PTWVY[HU[ [V `V\ [OHU ÅH]VY HUK `V\ HYL SVVRPUN MVY H Z\WLY JYLHT` SLTVU J\YK [OLU SLH]L P[ V\[ **I’ve seen similar recipes that call for up to 8 tablespoons of butter. Go for it! I think it tastes great with 4 tablespoons, but I’m not one to turn down extra butter.

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EASY FLAKY PIE CRUST RECIPE justalittlebitofbacon.com Prep Time: 2 hours 15 minutes ;OYV^ V\[ L]LY`[OPUN `V\ RUV^ HIV\[ THRPUN WPL JY\Z[ [V THRL [OL ILZ[ LHZ` Ã…HR` WPL JY\Z[ you’ve ever made. ñ J\WZ HSS W\YWVZL Ã…V\Y 2 tablespoons granulated sugar ½ teaspoon table salt 2½ sticks cold unsalted butter, cut into ½-inch-thick pieces 6 tablespoons cold water 4LHZ\YL V\[ HSS [OL Ã…V\Y PU[V H TP_PUN IV^S (KK HIV\[ V\UJLZ VM [OL Ã…V\Y [V [OL bowl of food processor. Add in the sugar and salt, and pulse to combine. 3H` V\[ [OL I\[[LY L]LUS` V]LY [OL Z\YMHJL VM [OL Ã…V\Y )LNPU W\SZPUN [OL Ã…V\Y HUK I\[[LY [VNL[OLY *VU[PU\L \U[PS [OL Ã…V\Y HUK I\[[LY HYL JVTWSL[LS` JVTIPULK [OLYL PZ UV KY` Ã…V\Y in the processor, and the dough has clumped up. :WYLHK V\[ [OL KV\NO ^P[O H Y\IILY ZWH[\SH HUK [OLU ZWYPURSL [OL YLTHPUPUN Ã…V\Y V]LY the top. Pulse just a few times, 5-6 quick pulses, to break up the dough. Transfer the dough to a large bowl. Sprinkle the water over the dough, and use the rubber spatula to fold and mix the water into the dough. Once the water is mixed in and the dough has become a cohesive ball, turn out the dough VU[V H ^LSS Ã…V\YLK Z\YMHJL +P]PKL [OL KV\NO PU OHSM HUK ZOHWL LHJO OHSM PU[V H KPZJ >YHW each disc in plastic wrap, and let it rest in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours and up to 3 days. After the dough has rested, use it in any recipe calling for one or two 9-inch pie crusts. Recipe Notes Adapted from Easy Pie Dough by Serious Eats. This recipe will make two 9-inch pie crusts. Don’t be afraid to work the dough after you’ve added the water and are forming it into discs. I fold and press the dough a few times by hand so that it makes a nice, smooth ball, which I can shape into a disc. I have found that this dough is forgiving even if your butter isn’t completely cold. I made a perfect pie on a hot day where my butter had softened before I made the dough. However, I would recommend going with the cold butter since that does remove a variable. I like to roll out my dough VU ZOLL[Z VM ^H_ WHWLY 0 ÄUK P[ OLSWZ ^OLU it’s time to transfer the rolled crust to the pie pan. I put two sheets below the dough and sprinkle both the wax paper and the KV\NO ^P[O Ã…V\Y 6UJL 0»T KVUL 0 JHU SPM[ up the whole crust with the wax paper, easily move it to my pie pan, and then peel VɈ [OL ^H_ WHWLY Whether you use wax paper or not, THRL Z\YL `V\ \ZL H ^LSS Ã…V\YLK Z\YMHJL dough, and rolling pin. Flour everything! One more thing—when you are ready to roll, make sure you let the dough sit out until it’s pliable. Refrigerated dough is too cold to roll and will crack as you work. @V\Y ÄUNLYZ ZOV\SK SLH]L HU PTWYPU[ I\[ not sink in.

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You can never go wrong with fresh fruit. This is a light salad that would go well with breakfast or lunch.

RAINBOW FRUIT SALAD thecozyapron.com 1 small fresh pineapple (or ½ large one), cored and cut into small wedges/pieces 1 mango, peeled and cut into small cubes 1 peach, sliced and cut into smaller pieces 1 nectarine, sliced and cut into smaller pieces ½ pound strawberries, hulled and quartered 1 medium-size package (about 11 ounces) fresh blueberries Citrus-Honey Dressing (recipe to the right) 1 tablespoon fresh mint leaves, finely chopped or julienned Add all the cut fruit to a large bowl, and if not cold already, chill for about 30 minutes. Pour Citrus-Honey Dressing over it, and sprinkle in the julienned/chopped mint; toss everything together, and serve immediately. (If making slightly ahead, you can just keep the cut fruit in a bowl in the fridge; and when ready to serve, toss with the citrus-honey dressing and the mint, and serve.)

CITRUS-HONEY DRESSING 2 tablespoons honey 1 teaspoon orange zest 1 teaspoon lime zest 2 tablespoons fresh-squeezed orange juice ½ tablespoon fresh lime juice Add all ingredients to a small bowl, and whisk together until well-combined; use immediately, or keep covered and refrigerated until ready to use. (-VY ILZ[ Ă…H]VY \ZL as soon as possible after being prepared.)

Becky Junkin, mother of four and grandmother of eight, is a lifelong Natchez resident, a retired elemenWDU\ WHDFKHU RI WZHQW\ IRXU \HDUV DQG FHUWLĂ€HG 3LODWHV instructor.

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THE wedding SCENE BROOKHAVEN, MISSISSIPPI

Visit www.bluffsbayous.com for all social scenes.

Engagement Party for Ali Tirrell and Justin Hobbs n the evening of February 2, 2019, a festive evening celebrating the engagement of Ali Tirrell and Justin Hobbs took place at the home of Dr. David and Mrs. Debra Strong of Brookhaven, Mississippi. The party was given by friends and family of the groom. Many Brookhaven friends welcomed the bride’s family from Naples, Florida, on their first visit to Brookhaven. The engaged couple will be married in Miami, Florida, in May.

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1 Ali Tirrell and Justin Hobbs 2 Danita Hobbs and Liz Tirrell 3 Deanne Allgood and DeLois McClelland 4 Ali Tirrell and Anna Fry 5 Danita Hobbs and Bette Dixon 6 Danita Hobbs and Pete Moak 7 Danita Hobbs and Dienna Moak 8 Ellie Phillips, Angie Cox, Teresa Coleman, and Robyn Aker 9 Kelly Perkins, Marlene Cupit, and Anne Houston Craig 10 Shannon Clark, Amy Valentine, and Susan Fitzsimmons 11 Blake Hobbs with Rachel and Kirby Hobbs 12 Linda Moak, Sally Lampton, and Debra Strong 13 Danita Hobbs, Ali Tirrell, Justin Hobbs, Lyle Hobbs, and Blake Hobbs 14 Ashlyn Farrar, Jay Tirrell, Liz Tirrell, Ali Tirrell, Justin Hobbs, and Abigail Tirrell

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THE wedding SCENE

BROOKHAVEN, MISSISSIPPI

Visit www.bluffsbayous.com for all social scenes.

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15 Ali Tirrell, Blake Hobbs, and Will and Haley Thibideaux 16 Kellye Sicks, Teresa Coleman, Kathy Crane, and Danita Hobbs 17 Austin and Calista Mills with Carrie and Jarrod Rayburn 18 Austin Watts, Ali Tirrell, Justin Hobbs, and Austin Mills 19 Don Coleman, Ali Tirrell, Blake Hobbs, Teresa Coleman, and Danita Hobbs 20 Rick Taylor, Anna C. Moak, Sydney Moak, Patti Moak, and John Chrestia 21 Teresa Coleman, Kathy Crane, Danita Hobbs, and Leah Ann Peavey

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Bluffs & Bayous { April 2019 { Page 17

LEGAL NOTES

BY

Lucien C. Gwin III

“What God Hath Joined Together Let No Man . . .�

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here is hardly a family in the United States who has not been impacted by divorce. I imagine that there is not a person reading this article who has not been affected by divorce, either directly or indirectly. The statistics of marriages ending in divorce range from 25% to 50%, depending on which study you review. Mississippi has thirteen grounds for diYRUFH DOWKRXJK QLQHW\ Ă€YH SHUFHQW P\ HGucated guess) of divorces are granted on three grounds: irreconcilable differences, adultery, and habitual cruel and inhuman treatment. Under irreconcilable differences, both the husband and wife must agree that they will divorce on such grounds. The parties may agree on the grounds of irreconcilable differences but still go to court DQG Ă€JKW RYHU DOLPRQ\ DQG DVVHW GLVWULEXtion, etc. Most irreconcilable-difference diYRUFHV DOVR NQRZQ DV ´QR IDXOWÂľ GLYRUFHV KDSSHQ DIWHU WKH SDUWLHV KDYH Ă€OHG IRU GLvorce on the basis of one of the other two JURXQGV Ă€JKW LW RXW DOO WKH ZD\ XS WR WKH courthouse, and then agree to settle and thereafter dismiss their charges against one another and agree on irreconcilable differences. Of course, as I said, this must be by agreement and there has to be a Property Settlement Agreement between the parties to go with a no-fault divorce. Page 18 { April 2019 { Bluffs & Bayous

Divorces on the grounds of adultery are most often the most volatile, emotionally charged, embarrassing, and downright dirty cases. I have handled many of them. In order to prove a spouse guilty of adultery, one must show that the spouse in question has an inclination to engage in sexual relations outside of the marriage and has the opportunity to do so. With the new technology of e-mails, texts, social media, etc., it has become much easier to prove adultery against one’s spouse. My advice to anybody going through a divorce is to STAY OFF social media and be extremely careful what you put in writing in a text, instant message, e-mail, etc. The third most common ground for divorce in Mississippi and the one I want to IRFXV RQ WKH PRVW LV WKH JURXQG RI ´KDELWXDO FUXHO DQG LQKXPDQ WUHDWPHQW Âľ 7KLV ground in my opinion is the most used ground for divorce today. However, people RIWHQ PLVXQGHUVWDQG ZKDW ´FUXHOW\Âľ PHDQV under the law. For example, a wife often feels that, when her husband hollers a lot, kicks furniture, stays out drinking all night with buddies, and/or is constantly criticizing her, she has been abused to such a degree that she is entitled to a divorce under cruelty. Men, on the other hand, think that, when their wives won’t cook or clean, nag a lot, deny them as much sex as they would like, and spend too much money on things other WKDQ KXQWLQJ Ă€VKLQJ RU JROĂ€QJ LWHPV WKH marriage is irretrievably broken and justiĂ€HV D GLYRUFH RQ WKH JURXQGV RI FUXHOW\ Well, the Mississippi Supreme Court has other ideas about what the statute says. The Court has said, when a person wants a divorce on the grounds of cruelty, that PHDQV ´FUXHOW\ Âľ The legal standard for cruelty was recently spelled out by the Mississippi Supreme Court when it stated as follows: Habitual cruel and inhuman treatment has conduct that either 1) endangers life, limb or health or creates a reasonable apprehension of such danger, and

renders the relationship unsafe for the parity seeking the divorce, or 2) is so unnatural and infamous as to render the marriage revolting to the non-offending spouse making it impossible to carry out the duties of the marriage and therefore destroying the basis for its continuance . . . . To prove habitual cruelty, the Plaintiff must show more than mere unkindness, rudeness, or incompatibility. Violence in a marriage is almost always grounds for a divorce under habitual cruel and inhuman treatment. Thus, when the issues in one’s marriage DUH OLNH WKH IROORZLQJ³´KH MXVW GRHVQ¡W SD\ DWWHQWLRQ WR PH Âľ RU ´VKH LV D FROG Ă€VKÂľ RU ´KH¡V DOZD\V KDYLQJ KLV RZQ ZD\Âľ RU ´VKH¡V QHYHU KDSS\ ZLWK DQ\WKLQJ , GR RU VD\Âľ RU ´ZH KDYH GULIWHG DSDUW¾³WKHQ \RX probably need to seek a counselor and not a lawyer. You will not get a divorce on the grounds of cruelty for any of the conduct stated above. Furthermore, if you are claiming that your mental health is affected by the marriage, it is going to take more than your just VD\LQJ WKDW \RX DUH ´VWUHVVHG RXW Âľ ,W LV JRing to take your seeing a doctor, relating the offenses of your marriage to your doctor, and explaining how these are affectLQJ \RXU KHDOWK LQ D VLJQLĂ€FDQW ZD\ 7KH doctor also must make a diagnosis of such, that is, mental illness, extreme anxiety, etc. In other words, your mental illness due to your marriage must be medically cognizable in order to qualify for divorce on the grounds of cruelty. MY TAKE: I do not know a single attorney who likes to take divorce cases. If spouses would be a little more humble with each other and not insist on having their way all the time, I think we would see less divorces in Mississippi. Lucien C. “Samâ€? Gwin III was admitted to the Mississippi Bar in 1981 and has been practicing many aspects of the law at the firm of Gwin, Punches & Kelley in Natchez, Mississippi, ever since.

BROOKHAVEN & MCCOMB, MISSISSIPPI

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THE social SCENE BROOKHAVEN, MISSISSIPPI

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Haven Hall Open House o show its love for the community, area residents, and families and staff, Haven Hall Healthcare Center in Brookhaven, Mississippi, held a ribbon cutting, open house, and reception on February 14, 2019, all to celebrate the addition of the center’s new porte-cocherÊ, main entrance, lobby, and office space. As guests entered, they received tickets; and the winning ticket holders received prizes.

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1 Dale Brister, Misty Coon, and Greg Arnold 2 Lacey Terrell, Kim Barlow, and Pam McGee 3 Bill Sones, Stan Foster, Dale Brister, and Ben Sills

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Set of Closing Fees Pay all closing fees one time for the entire term of the loan. P2P Bluffs & Bayous { April 2019 { Page 21

THE social SCENE BROOKHAVEN, MISSISSIPPI

Visit www.bluffsbayous.com for all social scenes.

Celebration for Annette Dunaway nnette Dunaway has worked 40plus years in the fitness industry and currently is retiring from her Body Pump class at King’s Daughters Fitness Center. Celebrating with Annette were her husband and loyal students enjoying fun, food, and cheer. The occasion took place on Wednesday, February 27, 2019, at Magnolia Blues in Brookhaven, Mississippi. Annette will be missed!

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1 Annette Dunaway 2 Sherrie Smith-Morace and Kim Rothrock 3 Dawn Freeman and Crystal Alexander 4 Annette Dunaway, Maureen Cooney, and Debbie Brown 5 Marsha Stailey and Annette Dunaway 6 Mandy and Roxanne Douglas 7 Jackie Richardson and Caitlin Harris 8 Michelle Case and Debbie Alexander 9 Beth Johnson and Kasi Davis 10 Mandy Douglas, Cindy Higgs, and Sherrie Smith-Morace 11 Donna Hodge, Don Hodge, and Marsha Stailey 12 Heather Reynaud, Anna Etheridge, Kathy Crane, Ben Dunaway, and Annette Dunaway 13 Kim Rothrock, Annette Dunaway, and Maureen Cooney 14 Front—Heather Reynaud, Anna Etheridge, and Kathy Crane; back— Crystal Alexander, Dawn Freeman, and Annette Dunaway 15 Front—Jan Ratcliff, Heather Reynaud, Anna Etheridge, Kathy Crane, and Ben Dunaway; back—Cindy Higgs, Jackie Richardson, Maureen Cooney, Crystal Alexander, Dawn Freeman, Annette Dunaway, and Debbie Brown 16 Front—Bianca Smith, Maureen Cooney, and Jackie Richardson; back—Jodi Flowers and Annette Dunaway

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General stores have a little bit of everything.

THE GENERAL STORE . . . A Piece of the Past story and photography by Jennifer Jackson Whittier

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any years before supermarkets, wholesale warehouses, or online shopping, the General Store played a prominent role in our rural Southern lifestyles. As a child, I have fond memories of Jackson’s Grocery, owned and operated by my grandparents, on Highway 550 in Lincoln County, Mississippi. My fondest memories center around the KRXUV , VSHQW DV D FKLOG KHOSLQJ P\ JUDQGPRWKHU ´UXQ WKH VWRUH Âľ UHDFKLQJ LQWR WKH LFH IRU D IURVW\ ERWWOH RI Coca Cola, and munching on crackers and freshly sliced bologna. That general store and the many like it were havens for folks who lived in the country and had neither the time nor the inclination to drive into town to shop. Most general stores are a thing of the past, but some have survived to keep the traditions of rural life alive. They may not offer the varied selections of the larger markets, but general stores provide something much more important—a community bond. Times may have changed; but many people still long for the simple life, visiting with friends, sharing stories, eating a leisurely meal, and slowing down their fast-paced lives to enjoy the journey. Page 24 { April 2019 { Bluffs & Bayous

SONES GENERAL STORE AND DINER Sones General Store and Diner, located at 1681 Highway 550 Northwest in the Loyd Star community, has a long and varied history. The previous owners, who opened the store in 1965, provided a multi-purpose grocery store, mechanic shop, and junk yard for the community. Current owner, -LPP\ 6RQHV SHUVRQDOO\ JUHHWV KLV FXVWRPHUV PRVWO\ E\ WKHLU Ă€UVW QDPHV ZLWK DQ LQYLWDWLRQ WR VKRS GLQH DQG VLW GRZQ DQG ´YLVLW IRU D VSHOO Âľ ,Q 2013, Sones bought the property and expanded the diner to include a full EUHDNIDVW PHQX VWDUWLQJ DW $ 0 SURYLGLQJ PDGH WR RUGHU SDQFDNHV eggs, bacon, sausage, and a variety of biscuit sandwiches, along with grits and hash browns. If you don’t make it to Sones General Store for breakfast, then the lunch PHQX LV VXUH WR VDWLVI\ \RXU SDODWH 7KH ODGLHV LQ WKH GLQHU FDQ Ă€OO \RXU SODWH for dining in or takeout with a variety of steaming hot vegetables, pork FKRSV IULHG FKLFNHQ FDWĂ€VK VPRNHG PHDWV KDPEXUJHUV FULVS\ IULHG SRWDtoes, cornbread or roll, and some absolutely mouthwatering banana pudding or fruit cobblers. There are also home-made pies, homegrown tomatoes and strawberries, and even pickled quail eggs for sale and neatly displayed on the counter. You won’t leave hungry! Need a grocery or household item or want to top off your gas tank? Sones General Store has you covered, and you ZRQ¡W KDYH WR GULYH IDU WR Ă€QG MXVW ZKDW \RX ZDQW

Jimmy Sones, J. D. Thadison, and Hubert Huval share stories and conversation at Sones General Store and Diner.

Jimmy Sones has a special love for his store and his community; and as we talked and sat in the rocking chairs, which happen to be the focal point of the store, his emotional connection with the people was obvious. His eyes brightened as he shared stories of the people he has met over the years, some of whom were just passing through, but others who are lifelong friends. Sones’s knowledge of the Bible is fascinating; and many patrons come by just to talk about their challenges in life, never leaving without a scripture that somehow makes them feel better about their situations. Just as the

A countertop display at Sones General Store and Diner

owners before him, Sones feels that his story is a part of the history that will be remembered long after he is gone. He feels honored to be a part of the lives of the people in his community by providing a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Yes, there are larger stores, more elaborate and modern; but Sones General Store and Diner offers an opportunity to relax, enjoy the moment, and bask in a little bit of the past. As long as there are folks like the Jimmy Sones, the beloved general stores will never fade away. Contact Sones General Store at 601-823-0738.

several transformations over the past few years from bar to gentlePHQ¡V FOXE FRPSOHWH ZLWK D OLYH EDQG DQG GDQFH à RRU WR LWV SUHVent use as a general store, feed and seed store, diner, and much more. Throughout, Pleasant Hill has remained a family business supported through community efforts. Open seven days a week, year round, from 6:00 A.M. until 7:00 P.M., the business has consistently met the needs of its customers, providing hot meals, cold drinks, varieties of specialty items, and a friendly atmosphere. Hunting camps abound in the area,

David G. Newell with Chan and Whitney Newell, past and present owners, respectively, of Pleasant Hill Grocery

PLEASANT HILL GROCERY Further on down the road, at 22267 Highway 28, near Union &KXUFK 0LVVLVVLSSL RQ WKH -HIIHUVRQ &RXQW\ OLQH \RX¡OO Ă€QG DQ RDsis for hunters and country dwellers alike at Pleasant Hill Grocery. For thirty years, this general store, hardware emporium, diner, liquor store, gas station, and mechanic/tire shop have provided goods and services for the communities of Jefferson, Lincoln, and Copiah Counties, and beyond. Originally built by David G. Newell, Pleasant Hill Grocery is now owned and operated by his grandson, Chan Newell, and Chan’s wife, Whitney. The store has undergone

Groceries and more at Pleasant Hill Grocery

Bluffs & Bayous { April 2019 { Page 25

Enjoy a delicious hot lunch at Pleasant Hill Grocery.

and hunters depend on Pleasant Hill for their supplies. During the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, many people in the area around Pleasant Hill had no food, water, or electricity. Thankfully, the Newells had installed a 100-kilowatt generator and were able to provide the necessities for those in need. At a time when the community needed help, Pleasant Hill offered assistance. Hunting trophies line the walls; and visitors enjoy the stories and historical background provided by the original owner, David Newell, who can be found daily at the store, ready to meet and greet old and new customers with his wealth of information about Pleasant Hill. Present co-owner Chan Newell remembers the time when the store consisted of one building; with the recent addition of the liquor store, the business has expanded to resort status. The Newells are a prime example of the experience of a past generation combining with the optimism of the present generation to develop a successful business and a community landmark. For additional information, call 601-786-6271.

Specialty Chicken Salad Wrap and White Bean Chicken Chili at Topisaw General Store

Dine in or enjoy your meal in the courtyard at Topisaw General Store.

TOPISAW GENERAL STORE In October 2012, the revitalization of 105 Main Street in 0F&RPE 0LVVLVVLSSL EHFDPH D UHDOLW\ ZKHQ (GLH 9DUQDGR RSHQHG Topisaw General Store. (GLH H[SODLQV ³,Q ZH SXUFKDVHG 0DLQ 6WUHHW DV DQ LQYHVWPHQW LQ GRZQWRZQ 0F&RPE $W WKH WLPH ZH KDG QR LGHD ZKDW ZH ZHUH JRLQJ WR GR ZLWK WKH EXLOGLQJ :H MXVW WRUH out walls and carpeting and set about to create a restful, welcoming space. Over the years, that space has become a downtown lunch hub, a gathering place for families, a music venue, and a yeasty haven for our bread classes. Its roles have changed and adapted, but its essence has remained the same: It provides a place to build community.� The location was a blank canvas awaiting someone with the FUHDWLYH YLVLRQ WR EULQJ LW EDFN WR OLIH DQG (GLH 9DUQDGR GLG MXVW Page 26 { April 2019 { Bluffs & Bayous

that. This Main Street venue had been the site of a pool hall, a men’s clothing store, a record shop, and a check-cashing business—quite a varied history since the early 1950s. Now, it houses a delightful cafÊ that has brought new life to the downtown area. 7RSLVDZ *HQHUDO 6WRUH UHÀHFWV LWV &KRFWDZ PHDQLQJ ³OLWtle chestnut� (Keith A Baca, Native American Place Names in Mississippi), as a place of relaxation in nature, which is exactO\ WKH DWPRVSKHUH RQH ¿QGV DW WKLV FKDUPLQJ HDWHU\ :LWK ³IUHVK unique, and delicious� as its motto, Topisaw General Store offers a variety of salads, sandwiches (made with the store’s own homemade breads), pizza, quiche, soups, and desserts, all made from scratch, along with vegan and gluten-free options made with only the freshest, organic ingredients. The menu is extensive and provides selections for even the pickiest of palates. :KHWKHU \RX GHFLGH WR HQMR\ \RXU PHDO LQ WKH GLQLQJ DUHD RU LQ the courtyard, you’re sure to be delighted with both the food and the atmosphere. Edie Varnado is proud of the diversity of her customers and the role that Topisaw General Store plays in bringing people together in a safe, accepting space for forming friendships, HQMR\LQJ IRRG DQG FHOHEUDWLQJ OLIH For further information and more about the menu, explore topisawgeneral.com.

Hailey Wells and Chris Bullock welcome customers to Cater’s Market.

CATER’S GOURMET MARKET AND DELI $Q\RQH XS IRU D GD\ WULS" 7KHQ \RXÂśOO ZDQW WR YLVLW &DWHUÂśV Gourmet Market and Deli at 5201 Highway 493 in Meridian, 0LVVLVVLSSL -XVW DV LW FODLPV WR EH ÂłD WUXH GHVWLQDWLRQ IRU WKH Southern foodie,â€? &DWHUÂśV RIIHUV D ZLGH YDULHW\ RI ZUDSV VDQGZLFKes, soups, salads, desserts, and coffees for either dining in or graband-go; and every item is fresh, colorful, and delicious. Since 2006, RZQHU -DPLH &DWHU KDV ZHOFRPHG FXVWRPHUV IURP IDU DQG ZLGH providing them with a fun, welcoming atmosphere and gourmet LWHPV DQG PHDOV WKDW MXVW FDQÂśW EH IRXQG DQ\ZKHUH HOVH LQ 0HULGLDQ &DWHUÂśV 0DUNHW LV RSHQ IRU EUHDNIDVW SURYLGLQJ WDVW\ IDYRULWHV OLNH D YDULHW\ RI RPHOHWV FKHHVH JULWV DQG IUHVK PXIÂżQV DQG VFRQHV DV ZHOO DV D IXOO H[SUHVVR EDU ,I \RXÂśUH QRW DQ HDUO\ ULVHU &DWHUÂśV lunch menu will tempt you with its famous sandwiches that include chicken salad, muffulettas, BLTs, pimento cheese, quiche, Reuben, RU FOXE 7RR EXV\ WR FRRN" 3UREOHP VROYHG²&DWHUÂśV LQ KRXVH

Chicken Salad Spinach Wrap at Cater’s

casseroles make the perfect meal. Add a fresh dessert of brownies or chess, cheesecake, lemon, pecan, or rocky road squares; and your family will be delighted. This bright, inviting eatery is large enough to provide a spacious dining experience but cozy enough to make customers feel right at home. Shelves stocked with items made in Mississippi provide a colorful backdrop and conversation topic, as well as an after-dinner VKRSSLQJ RSSRUWXQLW\ -DPV MHOOLHV JRXUPHW ROLYH RLO FRORUIXO SRWtery, books, and a myriad of other gift items make perfect souveQLUV D UHPLQGHU RI \RXU WULS WR &DWHUœV 0DUNHW %H VXUH WR PHHW WKH PDQDJHU &KULV %XOORFN DQG KLV IULHQGO\ staff. They go above and beyond to offer meal suggestions, answer your questions, and make your dining experience one you’ll fondly UHPHPEHU 0\ ¿UVW YLVLW WR &DWHUœV 0DUNHW ZDV WRS QRWFK IURP WKH food to the friendly atmosphere and last, but certainly not least, to WKH SHFDQ VTXDUHV , MXVW FRXOGQœW UHVLVW Get more information at catersmarket.com or call 601-482-5515.

Checkerboard typical of those in the 1920s Photography courtesy of the Mississippi Ag Museum

THE GENERAL STORE Of course, no overview of general stores would be complete without The General Store, located at the Agricultural Museum in Jackson, Mississippi, the heart of our Small Town, Mississippi, locales. A replica of the typical old-time general stores of the early 1900s, this building and the grounds surrounding it offer an opportunity to step into a time when general stores were the one-stop shopping centers for rural areas. When life seemed simpler and

The small-town General Store at the Mississippi Agricultural Museum in Jackson beckons visitors to “sit a spell.� Photography courtesy of the Mississippi Ag Museum

less fast paced, general stores provided families perhaps not everything they wanted, but indeed everything they needed. A visit to The General Store allows those who are old enough to remember, as well as those too young to remember, a look at displays of items for sale during the period when old-fashioned rock candy, Bluffs & Bayous { April 2019 { Page 27

Authentic cash register and mustache cup Photography courtesy of the Mississippi Ag Museum

an ice cold Coca Cola in a glass bottle, moon pies, peppermint sticks, and penny candy were cherished treats for young and old alike.

Page 28 { April 2019 { Bluffs & Bayous

Some of the historical artifacts on display in the store include a functional potbelly stove; antique cash registers; and replicas of food items stored in tin cans, glass jars, and cardboard boxes. There are even cups that provided a small half-moonshaped mustache guard, enabling gentlemen to sip their tea or coffee while keeping a dry mustache. What general store would be complete without a front porch with rocking chairs and a checkerboard, inviting visitors and customers to catch up on the news of the day while enjoying a friendly game of checkers? For those who want to take home a memento of The General Store, items for sale include an assortment of timeless toys, such DV MDFNV PDUEOHV \R \RV SLFN XS VWLFNV and similar keepsakes. You will not want to

leave without some Mississippi-made honH\V MHOOLHV MDPV FKHHVH VWUDZV FDQGOHV and much more. The General Store offers a look at times past and hopefully reminders of the importance of the simple things in life. Plan your visit at www.msagmuseum. org or 601-432-4500. Take time to enjoy the small things, the simple things; take a walk, a scenic drive; avoid the masses for awhile and enjoy the companionship of one or two; sit on porches, discover the clouds again, be content sitting alone. As I researched these locations, I found pleasure in the uniqueness of each one, the genuineness of the people I met along the way, and the richness of those things we so often take for granted. –JW

On the River k On the River k On the River k On the River

Natchez k vidalia k Ferriday k Natchez k vidalia k Ferriday k Bluffs & Bayous { April 2019 { Page 29

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Planting tulips on Clifton Avenue

Gay Austin, Incoming President of National Garden Clubs, Inc. by Cheryl Rinehart n May 2, 2019, Gay L. Austin will be inducted as President of National Garden Clubs, Inc., one of the nation’s mostUHFRJQL]HG QRQSURÀWV DQG WKH ODUJHVW YROXQWHHU JDUGHQing organization in the world, during its upcoming annual convention from April 29 to May 2. The Garden Clubs of Mississippi will host this 90th Convention of the National Garden Clubs in Biloxi, Mississippi at Beau Rivage Resort; DQG -RKQ %XUQV RI 1HVW LQ 1DWFKH] 0LVVLVVLSSL ZLOO FUHDWH WKH à Rral decor for the induction event. This year’s theme, Gathering on the Gulf will spotlight the City of Biloxi, located on the Mississippi Sound and the Gulf of Mexico. Biloxi is one of the oldest communities in the country, settled in 1699. Gay Austin’s participation in the NGC has been years in the making. She has served as a member of the National Garden Clubs, Inc., Board of Directors since 2001 and currently serves as the liaison for the NGC state presidents and region directors. For the past two years, she has served as First Vice-President traveling around the country in support and promotion of Plant America, The NGC’s new initiative that focuses on gardens and gardening with an emphasis on community service. Covering

every aspect of gardening, horticulture, garden design, and community service, 3ODQW $PHULFD LQLWLDWHV EHDXWLĂ€FDWLRQ projects in towns, cities, and neighborhoods and along roadsides all across the United States. From her community service, her love RI JDUGHQLQJ DQG Ă RUDO GHVLJQ DQG KHU KXmility in pursuing a path of service in her local community and on state and national levels, Austin has met thousands of people and left lasting impressions as she touches others with her gifts. In 1986, she joined the McComb Garden Club and continues to participate as an active member, having served as chairperson RI PRVW FRPPLWWHHV LQ WKLV FOXE DV ZHOO DV YDULRXV FOXE RIĂ€FHUV and as Club President 1996 to 1997. She also is a member of the Flower Lovers Garden Club in McComb and The Natchez Garden Club in Natchez, Mississippi. On the district, state, and regional levels of garden club activity, Austin has held many positions, including Chairperson of Bluffs & Bayous { April 2019 { Page 33

Top left—Accepting Mississippi Heritage Trust award for 2018 Pike County Courthouse renovation Middle left—Cheryl Obiediente (Panama President), Nancy Hargroves (NGC President), Mary Warshauer (NGC Second Vice President), Gay Austin (First Vice President), and Sandy Robinson (NGC President 2015-2017 Top Right—Creating art from nature’s bounty Above—Austin’s “Iris” painting like many of her works donated for charitable fundraising Right—Floral design that Austin entered in the 2017 World Association of Floral Arrangements competition in Barbados

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the 2003 NGC Annual Convention, State Flower Show Chairperson, State Awards Chairperson, President of the Mississippi Flower Show Judges Council, and editor of the state garden club publication, Miss Gardener, from 2005 to 2009. She also KDV VHUYHG LQ PDQ\ HOHFWHG RIĂ€FH SRVLWLRQV before serving as President of The Garden Clubs of Mississippi, Inc., from 2009 to 2011. In addition, she has received numerous honors for her service from The Garden Clubs of Mississippi, Inc., Rotary Club of McComb, the National Garden Clubs, Inc., McComb Junior Auxiliary, McComb Lions Club, and Keep Mississippi Beautiful. Her membership in nineteen organizations, within which she has held various leaderVKLS UROHV UHĂ HFWV KHU ZLOOLQJQHVV WR GHvote her talents and gifts to others. Austin’s status also includes NGC Master Flower Show Judge, NGC Flower Show Schools Horticulture Instructor, and membership on the Executive Committee of both Keep Mississippi Beautiful and the Mississippi Heritage Trust. Since 2006, she has been an active member of the Pike County Master Gardeners and formerly served as its president. Since 1975, she has been a member of the Amite River Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution. In addition to her interest in garden clubs, Gay Austin is passionate about animal rescue. In her spare time, she serves on the Board of Directors of PALS Rescue, Inc., a local no-kill animal shelter, having been a past president of this organization as well as Chairperson of the Shelter Building Committee in 2010. An accomplished multimedia artist with works in a number of private and corporate collections, Austin has donated many of her works through the years to fundraising events. She has been active in many other local organizations as well, including the Pike County Chamber of Commerce, McComb Junior Auxiliary, and Pike County Arts Council, serving as board member and president of each. A native of Liberty, Mississippi, Austin enjoyed growing up in rural Mississippi, KHOSLQJ ZLWK KHU PRWKHU¡V Ă RZHU DQG YHJetable gardens and learning the skill of gardening. Currently, she continues to grow and harvest fruits and vegetables for family use, specializing in making jams and jellies to share with friends. She studied art at Newcomb College in New Orleans, Louisiana, and later obtained her nursing degree. In this professional career, she Bluffs & Bayous { April 2019 { Page 35

Enjoying summer 2018 with family

worked as an Emergency Room RN at Southwest Mississippi Regional Medical Center from 1982 to 1985 and then as the RIÀFH PDQDJHU RI 6RXWKZHVW 0LVVLVVLSSL Ear, Nose, and Throat Clinic from 1985 to 2005. Gay Austin and her husband, Will, live in a rural part of Pike County, Mississippi. 7KH\ KDYH ÀYH FKLOGUHQ ZLWK VSRXVHV DQG ten grandchildren, along with nine dogs and two cats, all bringing immense joy to their lives. The couple recently purchased a historic home on the bluffs of the Mississippi River in downtown Natchez and enjoy spending family time there on weekends, cultivating a historic garden, hosting tours, and celebrating the majestic view of the river. Many years ago, Gay Austin, recalls KHDULQJ WKHVH ZRUGV IURP DQ 1*& RIÀFHU VSHDNLQJ DW D JDUGHQ FOXE PHHWLQJ ´7KH service you give to others is the legacy you OHDYH EHKLQG µ 7KLV PHVVDJH KDV LQVSLUHG her and strengthened her commitment to her family, community, area garden clubs, The Garden Clubs of Mississippi, and the National Garden Clubs, Inc. With Page 36 { April 2019 { Bluffs & Bayous

Four generations of garden club ladies— Sara Hemphill, Riley Hemphill, Elisabeth Jumper, Gay Austin, and Bess Hemphill

her decades of devotion in service to others, she has paved the way for her family, friends, and admirers to give back, teach, share, and cultivate the gifts and talents with which they are blessed. As an inspiration to us, we salute Gay L. Austin and wish for her a productive and enriching term as she leads our country in all aspects of beauty through gardening. For more information about the National Garden Clubs, Inc., visit www. gardenclub.org.

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PHOTOGRAPHY FOR THE WELL-DRESSED MAN BY JOHNNY SMITH PHOTOGRAPHY, BROOKHAVEN, MISSISSIPPI

The Well-Dressed Man | Brookhaven, Mississippi Bluffs & Bayous { April 2019 { Page 39

The Well-Dressed Man | Brookhaven, Mississippi Page 40 { April 2019 { Bluffs & Bayous

The Well-Dressed Man | Brookhaven, Mississippi Bluffs & Bayous { April 2019 { Page 41

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PHOTOGRAPHY FOR RRUS & COMPANY BY T. G. MCCARY, NATCHEZ, MISSISSIPPI

RRUS & Company | Vidalia, Louisiana Bluffs & Bayous { April 2019 { Page 43

RRUS & Company | Vidalia, Louisiana Page 44 { April 2019 { Bluffs & Bayous

RRUS & Company | Vidalia, Louisiana Bluffs & Bayous { April 2019 { Page 45

SPRING MUST-HAVES

Go-to Trends

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1. TB Phelps Tan and Ivory Saddle Oxfords made with Bison Leather from The Well-Dressed Man, Brookhaven, Mississippi 2. Fuchsia Fringe Earrings from RRUS & Company, Vidalia, Louisiana 3. Vanilla Protein Shake Mix from Curves, Brookhaven, Mississippi 4. Krewe Sunglasses from Miss-Lou Eye Care, Natchez, Mississippi +DQGFUDIWHG )LQH 6LOYHU %XWWHUÅ´\ 3HQGDQW -HZHOU\ E\ /DQD 0DULH 1DWFKH] 0LVVLVVLSSL

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SPRING MUST-HAVES

Fashion Fun

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&LW\ 6WUHHWV 2ULJLQDO 3HZWHU -HZHOU\ IURP &LW\ 6WUHHWV 1DWFKH] 0LVVLVVLSSL 2. Kendra Scott Pepper Hoops from Erin & Co., Brookhaven, Mississippi &RVWD 'HO 0DU :DWHUZRPDQ 6XQJODVVHV LQ %OXH 0LUURU *ODVV IURP 0RRUH 9LVLRQ 0F&RPE 0LVVLVVLSSL . <HOORZ *ROG )DFHWHG 7XUTXRLVH 6ZHHS (DUULQJV IURP 3DWULFNōV )LQH -HZHOU\ *LIWV 6W )UDQFLVYLOOH /RXLVLDQD %DE\ $YLDWRUV %DE\ 0DJQHW 2QHVLHV DQG 1DWLYH 6KRHV IRU .LGV IURP 2QH RI D .LQG 1DWFKH] 0LVVLVVLSSL

Bluffs & Bayous { April 2019 { Page 47

APRIL Louisiana Up & Coming! ALEXANDRIA / PINEVILLE alexandriapinevillela.com rapidessymphony.org

BATON ROUGE Throughout April visitbatonrouge.org lsumoa.org rivercenterarena:baton-rouge.ticketscenter.com April 6 – 7 Ebb & Flow Festival Baton Rouge Art Festival MS Riverfront 225.344.8558 HEEDQGÁRZEU RUJ CLINTON April 6 Clinton Market Days Clinton Courthouse Downtown 225.683.5531 eastfelicianachambela.chambermaster. com FERRIDAY deltamusicmuseum.com April 13 Ronnie Cox & Friends Arcade Theater 7 pm / $15 pp / $25 couple 318.757.9999 April 20 First Annual Easter Weekend Comedy Show Arcade Theater VIP tickets $20 General Admission $10 Must be 21 or older to attend 318.757.9999 April 27 Avery Michaels & Exit 209 Arcade Theater 7 pm / $15 pp / $25 couple 318.757.9999

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Louisiana Up & Coming! APRIL

JACKSON felicianatourism.org

MONROE/WEST MONROE Throughout April PRQURH ZHVWPRQURH RUJ NEW ORLEANS Throughout April QHZRUOHDQVRQOLQH FRP QHZRUOHDQVFYE FRP ogdenmuseum.org noma.org QHZFRPEDUWPXVHXP WXODQH HGX April 25 – May 5 NO Jazz & Heritage Festival Fairgrounds Race Course nojazzfest.com PONCHATOULA April 12 – 14 Ponchatoula Strawberry Festival “Live, Love, Laugh” Memorial Park Food, entertainment, 2 music stages Free family fun! Fri. 5:30 pm – 9:45 pm Sat.11:45 am – 10 pm Sun. 11:15 am – 5:30 pm 800.917.7045 VWUDZEHUU\IHVW#EHOOVRXWK QHW ODVWUDZEHUU\IHVWLYDO FRP PORT ALLEN Throughout April ZHVWEDWRQURXJH QHW ZHVWEDWRQURXJHPXVHXP FRP April 6 – 7 15th Kite Fest Louisiané West Baton Rouge Soccer Complex April 5 – Student Day Free ZHVWEDWRQURXJH QHW ST. FRANCISVILLE Throughout April ZHVWIHOLFLDQDKLVWRULFDOVRFLHW\ RUJ stfrancisville.us DXGXERQVWDWHKLVWRULFVLWH ZRUGSUHVV FRP

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APRIL Louisiana Up & Coming! April 13 Tunica Hills Music Fest & Jam Parker Memorial Park 10 am – 10 pm DGULDQSHUF\#EHOOVRXWK QHW

April 20 Feliciana Trade Days 4133 Hwy 10 9 am – 5 pm 225.719.2199

April 13 Jane Austen Day Audubon State Historic Site 10 am – 4 pm 225.635.37379

April 27 Spring Stroll Garden Tour Feliciana Master Gardeners $20 / Start at St. Francisville Town Hall -HVVLH +RRYHU MKRRYHU#DJFHQWHU OVX HGX April 27 – 28 Angola Prison Spring Rodeo Angola State Penitentiary angolarodeo.com

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VIDALIA Throughout April cityofvidalia.com Every Wednesday )DUPHU·V 0DUNHW Old Court House N. Spruce St. 9 am – 1 pm April 25 The Best of Broadway Concordia Bank Lobby 7 pm / Free

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APRIL Mississippi Up & Coming! visitmississippi.org BROOKHAVEN Throughout April facebook.com/VisitBrookhavenMS visitbrookhavenms.com brookhavenrecreation.com

April 3 – 7 Mississippi Spring Fest and Fair Lincoln Civic Center 1996 Industrial Park Rd., NE lincolnciviccenter.com April 5 Relay for Life of Copiah-Lincoln Lincoln Civic Center Multi-Purpose Building 6 pm April 26 – 28 & May 3 – 5 The Little Mermaid Brookhaven Little Theatre 7 pm & 2 pm 601.990.2243 CLARKSDALE April 12 – 15 Juke Joint Festival & Planters Celebration jukejointfestival.com FERNWOOD IHUQZRRGFF FRP JACKSON Throughout April dulinghall.com msmuseumart.org visitjackson.com jacksonfreepress.com/calendar msnla.org

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Mississippi Up & Coming! APRIL

Throughout April Mississippi Museum of Art msmuseumart.org April 6 Let the Ladies Dance Thalia Mara Hall 2 pm April 27 La Boheme Mississippi Opera Thalia Mara Hall 7:30 pm WLFNHWÁ\ FRP MADISON madisonthecity.com April 13 Easter in the Park Strawberry Patch Park 9:30 – 11:30 am madisonthecity.com

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APRIL Mississippi Up & Coming! April 18 Bibletones Quartet Concert Madison Square Center for the Arts 5 pm / $5 madisonthecity.com MCCOMB Throughout April pikeinfo.com mccombarts.com mcrrmuseum.com April 12 Railroad Depot Museum Golf Tournament Quail Hollow Golf Course pikeinfo.com April 26 Relay for Life Pike County Fairgrounds 5 – 10 pm UHOD\IRUOLIH RUJ VRXWKZHVWPV MEADVILLE Throughout April meadvillems.com MERIDIAN April 6 -- 7 5th Annual Meridian Mini Maker Faire Mississippi Industrial Heritage Museum Sat. 10 am – 5 pm Sun. 1 – 5 pm Free Tickets: Eventbrite.com Participation: 601.693.9905 meridian.makerfaire.com/call-for-makers NATCHEZ Throughout April Live Music Events Calendar visitnatchez.org/full-event-calendar Throughout April visitnatchez.org Through April 14 Southern Exposure Natchez Little Theatre 7:30 pm Thurs. – Sat. 2 pm – Sun. 601.442.2233

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Mississippi Up & Coming! APRIL

Through April 16 Spring Pilgrimage Tours & Entertainment natchezpilgrimage.com April 2 – 4 Southern Road to Freedom Holy Family Catholic Church 8 pm / $15 601.445.5700 April 5 & 12 Pop Up Farmers Market 300 N. Broadway St. 11 am – 1 pm April 5, 6, 12 & 13 A Royal Evening at Longwood Longwood 7 pm 601.442.5193 April 5 – 6 Natchez Euro Classic European Auto/ Moto Show Rosalie Grounds / Downtown 10 am – 5 pm euro-fest.net April 6 7th Annual Community Market Jefferson Street United Methodist Church 7 am – 3 pm 601.442.3795 April 13 Barks & Brews Natchez Brewing Company ZZZ QDWFKH]EUHZ FRP April 13 2nd Saturday Downtown Art Market 10 am - 2 pm April 14 Natchez Garden Club Annual Easter Egg Hunt Monmouth 2 pm / $10 601.443.9065

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APRIL Mississippi Up & Coming! April 26 &UDZÀVK &RXQWGRZQ Cathedral School 701 Dr. MLK Avenue 6 – 10 pm &UDZÀVK -DPEDOD\D %HYHUDJHV Drawing to win $5,000 ZZZ FDWKHGUDOJUHHQZDYH FRP April 27 10th Annual Kickball Tournament Leadership Natchez Duncan Park 9 am – 5 pm WD\ORUO#MRUGDQFDUULHUV FRP PORT GIBSON FB: portgibson.chamber RIDGELAND Throughout April visitridgeland.com April 6 – 7 Fine Arts Festival ridgelandartsfest.com SUMMIT Throughout April pikeinfo.com summit.org April 12 – 13 6PRNLQ· RQ WKH 7UDFNV %%4 &RRN RII /LYH 0XVLF 9HQGRU )RRG %HYHUDJH 601.248.2509 &DU 6KRZ smokinonthetracks.com VICKSBURG Throughout April southernculture.org visitvicksburg.com vicksburgartassociation.org WDUDZLOGOLIH FRP vicksburgtheatreguild.com GRZQWRZQYLFNVEXUJ RUJ April 5 – 6 Gold in the Hills Parkside Playhouse 101 Iowa Avenue 601.636.0471

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Mississippi Up & Coming! APRIL

Through April 7 Spring Pilgrimage Thurs. – Sun. Morning & Afternoon Tours $45 vicksburgpilgrimage.com April 13 Alcorn State University Jazz Festival Vicksburg Convention Center 1600 Mulberry Street 601.630.2929 April 13 Old Court House Spring Flea Market Old Court House Museum 1008 Cherry Street 601.630.2929 April 20 Fee Free Day at VNMP Vicksburg National Military Park 3201 Clay Street 601.636.0583 April 25 – 29 Miss Mississippi Outstanding Teen Pageant Vicksburg City Auditorium 901 Monroe Street 601.638.6746 WESSON Throughout April Facebook: Wesson Chamber April 26 – 27 WK $QQXDO :HVVRQ )RXQGHUV· 'D\ Downtown 7 am WOODVILLE Throughout April WRZQRIZRRGYLOOH RUJ FB: Woodville/Wilkinson County Main Street Association

%H VXUH WR FRQÀUP GHWDLOV RI WKH HYHQWV should changes have occurred since HYHQWV ZHUH VXEPLWWHG

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SOUTHERN SAMPLER

BY

Alma M. Womack

Mowing and Awaiting Good Gardening Weather

T

he cold and rainy weather of January, February, and March have about done me in. I don’t mind the cold so much, for VZHDWHUV DQG D JRRG ÀUH FDQ PDNH WKH FROG LQWR VRPHWKLQJ WR celebrate. We suffer so much in the summer from the heat and humidity—or at least I do—that winter is a nice respite for the body. These past three months, though, were so wet that walking in the yard was like walking on a saturated sponge. When a long spell of rain quits around here, we can pick up limbs, or maybe trim a little; but the limbs have to stay stacked in piles everywhere. It’s too wet to run the Mule to haul them off to the burn pile. I can’t mow, out of WKH TXHVWLRQ EXW WKH ZLQWHU JUDVV FRQWLQXHV WR à RXULVK :KHQ , GR get the mower out of the barn, I’ll have to mow one time with the PRZHU VHWWLQJ DW ÀYH LQFKHV DQG WKHQ JR RYHU LW DOO DJDLQ DW WKUHH inches high. I have a big yard; it will take me most of the day to get it in shape. Actually, Buster and I started out with a reasonably sized yard. In 1977 and 1979, we added the pool house and the pool; so the yard increased. A few years later, he changed a drainage ditch so that there was a goodly patch of ground between the SRRO DUHD DQG WKH ÀHOG :DV , FRQWHQW WR MXVW EXVKKRJ LW RQFH LQ a while? Oh, my, no. I planted Crepe Myrtle trees, two Cherry Bark Oaks, and River Birch trees, creating an extra section of Page 58 { April 2019 { Bluffs & Bayous

yard to cover every time I mowed. The live oaks, which I planted at the back of the house as switches in 1971, were fertilized every year; and they grew like Johnson grass. The turning row behind them had to keep moving back because I didn’t want equipment hitting them RU ÀHOG VSUD\ JHWWLQJ RQ them. That added another thirty minutes of mowing every time I mowed. Now, I look around and wonder why in the world I couldn’t have just stopped with a normal sized yard. Trying to scale it back would mean cutting down trees, perfectly healthy trees that love growing in this Black River soil. I just can’t do that. As long as I stay in reasonably good health, taking care of my yard should not become a problem. But the day will come for me, as it does for all us yard folk, when the mowing will become some else’s job. I am most fortunate to have two grandsons living close by. Woodrow already mows his yard and the yard of his grandmother Suzanne Wade, so he is trained. Also, it won’t be long until little JG will be old enough to put on the mower to learn how it handles. ,I WKLUG JUDQGVRQ 'UHZ ZHUH KHUH KH FRXOG KHOS WRR EXW KH LV LQ Hattiesburg where he’s likely to remain.) Right now, as I write this, I am just w.a.i.t.i.n.g for the ground to dry enough to use the mower without making ruts in the yard. The dry will come, sooner or later; the river will start falling; and we can get started on what we hope will be a wonderful year for yard work and gardening. And I have just proved to myself that I can sit down and write an article about practically nothing DQG ÀOO XS P\ SDJH &KHU\O Rinhart–Publisher is a most obliging and patient editor. Columnist Alma Womack lives on Smithland Plantation on Black River, south of Jonesville, Louisiana. In addition to her duties as maitresse des maison, she is the keeper of the lawn, the lane and the pecan orchard at Smithland.

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